When you feel challenged to follow the teachings of the Church, what helps you to face them? - Daily Reflections June 10, 2016

EMBRACING GOD’S CHALLENGES

Now comes a discussion on the burning hot issues of adultery and divorce. Perhaps we are tempted to turn our heads away, close our eyes, and just take refuge in the scenario of the First Reading, away from the turbulence of violent winds and strong earthquakes. Perhaps we’d rather escape the fire and look for God in the tranquil silence of the whispering wind.

       But just as the Lord commanded the terribly discouraged Elijah, we too have to go back, take the desert road to Damascus, and anoint those whom God has chosen. Yes, it’s no other than God who makes the choices, and commands us to follow His counsels. We may also exercise our free will and make our own choices (hopefully the correct ones), but definitely we cannot reduce our faith to a pick-and-eat, mix-and-match smorgasbord of delights.

    We may be stunned and stupefied by God’s challenges, most especially in the areas of marriage and family life, of purity and morality, as given to us through the teachings of the Catholic Church. But in our silent, humble, and faith-filled acceptance of His holy will, God will surely whisper to us His consolations and rewards. Fr. Martin Macasaet, SDB

REFLECTION QUESTION: When you feel challenged to follow the teachings of the Church, what helps you to face them?

Dearest Lord, help me to become Your faithful follower. Amen.